Fairfax County and Partners Sponsor

Share this Article

Author:

CarFit, a free, nationwide program that helps older adults adjust their car for safer driving, is coming to Fairfax County on Tuesday, April 21, 1-4 p.m. at the Fairfax Corner satellite parking lot (corner of Monument Drive and Government Center Parkway), Fairfax.

CarFit helps older adults determine how the “fit” of a car affects their driving and how to adapt the car to their changing needs. CarFit staff members conduct 20-minute individual assessments. Proper fit includes:

· proper mirror adjustment to minimize blind spots,

· correct foot positioning on the gas and brake pedals to decrease fatigue,

· seat belt and headrest adjustments, and

· seat adjustment allowing for at least 10 inches between the driver and steering wheel.

Appointments are necessary. For more information, to set up an appointment, or to request ADA reasonable accommodations call Sharon Lynn at 703-324-5425, TTY 703-449-1186.

Fairfax Area Agency on Aging Director Grace Starbird encourages older drivers to sign up for an appointment. “All of us want to continue driving as we get older,” she said. “This is an opportunity to ensure your car is adjusted for comfort and safety.”

The event is sponsored by the Department of Family Services’ Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, the Fairfax County Police Department, and the American Automobile Association Mid-Atlantic Region. CarFit was created by the American Society on Aging in collaboration with the American Automobile Association, AARP, and the American Occupational Therapy Association. The Virginia Department for the Aging GrandDriver program also supports the event

The event implements the Fairfax 50 Plus Action Plan’s imperative to provide transportation options that “ensure independence” of older adults.” The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors adopted the plan in October 2007.

Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. To request this information in an alternate format, call 703-324-5411, TTY 703-449-1186.

Featured Resources

Retirement Living & Health:

Retirement Living & Health:
One of the keys to healthful living well into your retirement days is prevention. By eating a well rounded diet and supplementing with a multi or woman's vitamin, you'll help ensure your body gets all the nutrients it needs to function properly.